tensioned membrane links white box volumes shaping dotsss children’s museum in chengdu

DL Atelier composes Dotsss Children’s Museum in Chengdu

In 2021, chinese architecture firm DL Atelier initiated the design for Dotsss Children’s Museum, located amidst the scenic lakes and islands of Chengdu‘s Luxelakes. This project aimed to create an ‘iceberg’ for children, encouraging exploration of the world’s deeper mysteries. The design and construction process, initially planned for ten months, extended to two years, balancing static architecture with changing conditions.

Situated in the northwest of Luxelakes, the museum is surrounded by sports and leisure facilities, contributing to a vibrant environment. The project’s dynamic surroundings influenced the design, leading to a building that remains steadfast amidst change. The museum deviates from traditional concepts, focusing on the future and engaging children with diverse spaces and exhibits.

DL Atelier designed the museum with flexibility to adapt to various exhibition needs. The design includes square box spaces that can be modified as needed, ensuring the building’s form remains impactful while maximizing space capacity. The spaces are linked by atriums and outdoor courtyards, creating a fluid and unrestricted visiting experience.

all images by ©Zhu Yumeng – Coppak Studio

DL Atelier designs square box spaces adapting to exhibition needs

The museum’s layout encourages children to explore freely, with interconnected exhibition halls and large windows that connect the interior and exterior. The courtyards act as gateways, allowing visitors to choose their paths through the museum. This design approach aligns with children’s natural tendencies, providing an environment where they can move freely and engage with their surroundings. The cubes are simply laid out following the contours of the site.

To meet the fast-build construction requirements, DL Atelier relocated most equipment to the outdoor rooftop, which is concealed under a tensioned membrane. This semi-transparent membrane creates cascading geometric changes, softening the rigid edges of the cubes and connecting them into a cohesive whole. The white appearance of the building, resembling an iceberg, offers a familiar yet unique architectural experience.

Dotsss Children’s Museum is more than a static space for learning; it is a dynamic educational platform. The museum’s design reflects DL Atelier’s commitment to creating spaces that engage and educate. The museum encourages children to explore and discover, fostering a deeper connection to the world around them.

DL Atelier designs Dotsss Children’s Museum set amidst Chengdu’s Luxelakes

the museum is surrounded by sports and leisure facilities, influencing its design

the design includes square box spaces that adapt to various exhibition needs

the box design maximizes space capacity while ensuring impactful architectural form

interconnected halls and large windows connect interior and exterior spaces

the cubes follow the site’s contours, concealed under a tensioned membrane to soften their edges

DL Atelier’s design prioritizes flexibility, ensuring the museum’s adaptability to changing exhibition needs

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courtyards create a fluid visiting experience, allowing children to move freely and engage with diverse exhibits

large windows integratie the museum's architecture with its natural environment, providing views

the museum's design reflects its surroundings, contributing to a vibrant and dynamic environment

Dotsss Children’s Museum embodies DL Atelier's vision of creating spaces that inspire curiosity and creativity

project info:

name: Dotsss Children’s Museum

architect: DL Atelier
design team: Liu Yang, Sun Xinye, Cai Zhuoqun, Ding Yuewen, Shi Weiwei, Duan Qi

location: Chengdu, China

photography: Zhu Yumeng – Coppak Studio | @Yumeng_Zhu_coppakstudio

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edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom